Richard Mendoza Arrested in Horrific Hit-and-Run Crash on South New Road [Waco, TX]

Waco, TX (December 21, 2025) — Waco police have arrested 23-year-old Richard Mendoza in connection with a hit-and-run crash late Thursday night that left two people injured and trapped inside their vehicle.

According to authorities, the crash happened shortly after 11:00 p.m. in the 1400 block of South New Road. Officers responding to the scene found a pickup truck overturned in a ditch with two occupants inside.

Waco Fire Department crews extricated both victims, and emergency medical personnel transported them to a local hospital for treatment.

According to investigators, a witness reported seeing a large white four-door pickup with a bed topper driving erratically before it struck the victims’ vehicle, forcing it off the roadway. The driver allegedly fled the scene by turning onto a nearby street.

Police later located the suspect vehicle abandoned in a parking lot of a nearby business. After tracing the truck to its registered owner and reviewing surveillance footage, officers identified Mendoza as the suspect. He was taken into custody and booked on charges of collision involving personal injury and failure to remain at the scene. Jail records indicate Mendoza is also being held on a driving while intoxicated charge related to the same incident.

Mendoza remained in custody Friday at the McLennan County Jail as the investigation continues.

Hit-and-Run is a Crime

A hit-and-run is a deadly offense that endangers lives and robs victims of their right to assistance. If you’re in an accident, do not leave the scene and check for injuries, 911 should be called immediately. Leaving can lead to criminal charges, even if the crash appears to be minor. As a driver, own it — someone’s life could hang in the balance.

If you observe a hit-and-run, report it and give any information you can. Assistance to law enforcement can really make a difference. Each of us can do our part to drive responsibly and with integrity, and to get everyone the help they need after a crash.

Leaving the scene of a crash can delay critical medical care and lead to serious legal consequences. Drivers are urged to stay at the scene, call for help immediately, and never drive under the influence.

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Life After a Traffic Accident

When a crash happens, it’s not just about the damage to your car. The aftermath can be painful—physically, emotionally, and financially. From the shock and injuries to medical bills and missed work, it can feel like your whole world has been turned upside down.

That’s why having the right support matters. Knowing your rights and having an experienced legal team by your side can make the road to recovery a little easier. While you focus on getting better, your lawyers can handle the complicated paperwork, insurance calls, and legal details.

At Sweet Lawyers, we’ve spent years helping people pick up the pieces after serious accidents. We know how tough it can be to move forward, and we’re here to help you through it—with compassion, experience, and a strong commitment to getting you the justice and compensation you deserve.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a crash, don’t face it alone. Call Sweet Lawyers today at (800) 674-7852 or reach out through our website.

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